She had her purse in her hand, and stood still a moment, hesitating.
"I generally ask twenty-five francs for a consultation," said Giuditta.
"But I am so much obliged to you for coming to free me from this obsession, that I shall not charge anything to-day." "No," answered Matilde, quietly.

"I am not accustomed to receiving anything without paying for it.

But I thank you." She laid the money upon the polished table, beside the volumes in their gilt bindings.
"Very well," said Giuditta.

"If you desire it, I thank you.

If you should wish to come again, I am always to be found between ten and three o'clock." "I will come again," answered Matilde.
She passed through the door while Giuditta held it open for her, and in the passage she was met by the one-eyed woman.